Top 8 calamari in Philadelphia
Calamari in Philadelphia is a popular dish, renowned for its delectable taste and variety of preparations. From traditional fried calamari to innovative dishes with unique twists, Philadelphia offers a wide range of options for calamari lovers. Some top spots known for their calamari dishes include Maggiano's Little Italy, The Plough & the Stars, Spasso Italian Grill, Ristorante Pesto, and Estia Restaurant.
1. Maggiano's Little Italy
Classic Italian-American dishes in a comfortable, home-style setting

The food offered at the establishment was truly exceptional. The star of the meal was the sampler served as an appetizer, which was so plentiful and delicious that it made it challenging to finish the main entree. The sampler was a delightful assortment of fried zucchini, fried mozzarella, bruschetta, and calamari.
The sampler provided such generous portions that it was difficult to finish the rest of the meal. For instance, even though I ordered a Caesar side salad, I was only able to consume a quarter of it due to the filling appetizer. The sheer volume of food in the sampler alone was enough to satisfy our hunger.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Social Gatherings
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2. Devon Seafood Grill
Known for their commitment to sustainable seafood and extensive wine list

The mini lobster rolls were a tasty start to the meal. However, the accompanying fried calamari was just average. A issue with the calamari dish was the noticeable lack of calamari itself. The plate was mostly filled with fried batter, which overshadowed the actual seafood.
For the appetizer round, we tried the mini lobster rolls and the fried calamari. The lobster rolls received positive feedback for their taste. In contrast, the fried calamari was merely okay. Unfortunately, the calamari was in short supply on the plate. An abundance of fried batter took the place of the main ingredient.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
3. Estia Restaurant
Authentic Greek cuisine in the heart of Philadelphia

My friends and I enjoyed a variety of dishes at the restaurant. We were particularly impressed by the grilled calamari and tuna tartare, which were standout starters. The saganaki, zucchini chips, calamari, and Greek salad also earned high praise from our group.
In addition to the appetizers, we also enjoyed several entrees. The bronzini with capers was a hit, as was the lobster linguini. Each dish was skillfully prepared and bursting with flavor, making for a truly enjoyable dining experience.
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TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- High-End
- Vegetarian Options
4. Spasso Italian Grill
Live music on weekends, rustic ambiance, extensive wine list

The appetizer selection at this establishment is not to be missed, especially the grilled calamari. It's a standout choice that is sure to impress. Accompanying the main dish are delicious homemade roasted peppers and bread, which are also complimentary.
The grilled calamari is a must-try. It's expertly prepared and has a fabulous taste that is unmatched. The appetizer section of the menu boasts a variety of options, but the grilled calamari is a clear favorite. Sharing the stage are the free homemade roasted peppers and bread, another highlight of the meal.
TOPICS
- Holiday Celebrations
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
5. Ristorante Pesto
Family-owned and operated for over 20 years, homemade pasta and sauces

The calamari fritti was a standout appetizer, with a perfect crispy exterior and tender, well-cooked squid inside. It was a must-try dish that left a great impression.
The calamari fritti was delicious, offering an excellent balance of textures. The exterior was crispy and well-fried, while the squid itself was tender and not overcooked. It was a great way to start the meal.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
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6. Dante & Luigi's
Family-owned restaurant with a rich history and traditional Italian cuisine

The calamari dish was expertly prepared and well-seasoned, making it a standout choice. Its Sicilian-style fried preparation resulted in a delightful crispy texture and rich flavor.
If you're looking for a must-try dish, the Sicilian-style fried calamari is a top recommendation. Its crispy exterior and delicious taste make it an exceptional culinary experience.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Vegetarian Options
- Hidden Gems
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7. Bellini
Excellent selection of Italian wines, charcuterie and cheese plates, romantic ambiance

The service and food at this establishment are outstanding. A particular standout is the calamari, which was incredibly fresh and cooked to perfection. The dish, Calamari Freschi Fritti, is priced at US$19.00 and features pan-fried squid served with marinara sauce.
Fresh squid was used in the Calamari Freschi Fritti dish, which was expertly cooked. The dish was beautifully presented and accompanied by a delicious marinara sauce. Priced at US$19.00, it offers excellent value for the high-quality ingredients and flavors.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Vegetarian Options
- Hidden Gems
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8. La Famiglia Ristorante
Long-standing family-owned business established in 1976, providing a taste of traditional Italian cooking in Philadelphia.

The calamari stands out as a highlight of the meal, prepared and seasoned to perfection. Food enthusiasts should not miss out on the opportunity to savor this dish.
Tagliolini with mussels, clams, calamari, and baby shrimp in a light tomato sauce is another remarkable offering. The combination of fresh seafood and light sauce creates a delightful and satisfying experience for pasta lovers.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Celebrations
- Mid-Range